KnowBe4 vs Malwarebytes: Complete Comparison (2026)
In comparing KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes in 2026, Malwarebytes is the stronger choice for individuals and businesses needing reliable malware detection and removal due to excellent malware detection rates. KnowBe4 excels for companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks with best-in-class phishing simulations. KnowBe4 offers Phishing simulations, Security training, Compliance training starting at $18/user/yr. Malwarebytes provides Malware removal, Real-time protection, Ransomware protection from $3.75/device/mo with a free tier. For teams prioritizing value, Malwarebytes delivers a hiltonsoftware Score of 76/100. KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes compete in the cybersecurity segment of the SaaS market, where cloud-native solutions, API integrations, and workflow automation drive enterprise and SMB adoption. Other leading cybersecurity tools include Okta, 1Password, Cloudflare. KnowBe4 serves 65K+ orgs users globally (founded 2010) while Malwarebytes reports 60K+ orgs active users (founded 2008).
KnowBe4 vs Malwarebytes at a Glance
What are the main differences between KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes?
KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes differ across ease of use, features, value, support, integrations, scalability, and learning curve. Malwarebytes leads in 5 of 7 categories.
What are the pros and cons of KnowBe4 vs Malwarebytes?
Which is better, KnowBe4 or Malwarebytes?
After evaluating KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes across features, pricing, integrations, and user satisfaction, Malwarebytes earns a higher hiltonsoftware Score of 76/100 versus KnowBe4 at 71/100. Malwarebytes stands out for "excellent malware detection rates" and "easy to use for non-technical users". KnowBe4 delivers competitive advantages in "best-in-class phishing simulations", making KnowBe4 a viable alternative.
On pricing, Malwarebytes offers a free plan for SMBs and startups. KnowBe4 starts at $18/user/yr with no free tier, but justifies the cost with phishing simulations and security training and enterprise-grade scalability.
Bottom line: Choose KnowBe4 for companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks. Choose Malwarebytes for individuals and businesses needing reliable malware detection and removal. Both KnowBe4 and Malwarebytes are established cybersecurity platforms.
Companies training employees to recognize and avoid phishing attacks.
Individuals and businesses needing reliable malware detection and removal.
KnowBe4 vs Malwarebytes: Frequently Asked Questions
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Reviewed by Elena Kowalski, Security & Enterprise Editor. Last updated: 2026-04-24. Pricing verified: March 2026.
Read our scoring methodology to understand how the hiltonsoftware Score is calculated.